Residents revamp park on their own

By Eloise Aguiar
Advertiser Windward O'ahu Writer

KAILUA — A year after the city removed unsafe swings from Pohakupu Park, local businesses and residents have replaced the equipment and added other amenities, using money they raised and volunteer labor.

Today, dozens of volunteers are expected to finish installing a swing set, walkway and exercise equipment. The city contributed picnic tables and benches.

Ann-Marie Medeiros initiated the project after arriving at the park a year ago to find the swings gone. Her son, then 2, and his 82-year-old great-grandmother used to swing together at the park.

Medeiros said she had envisioned replacing just the swings, but committee members added a concrete walk from the Pohakupu neighborhood to the fountain, exercise equipment, benches and picnic tables.

Some 22 businesses and individuals donated money, material, food and services; a committee of 14 organized the project, raising $30,000 in cash and $18,000 in material, labor and services.

Supporters include the Harold K.L. Castle Foundation, Ameron Hawai'i, Hardware Hawai'i, Kiewit Pacific Co., Castle Medical Center, McKenna Motors Hawaii, MOMS Club of Windward Oahu, Rotary Club of Windward Oahu, Pohakupu-Kukanono Community Association, Mechler Corp., Wescon Microtunneling, Aloha Playgrounds, state Reps. David Pendleton, Cynthia Thielen, Tommy Waters and state Sens. Fred Hemmings and Bob Hogue, Agnes' Portuguese Bake Shop, Dunkin' Donuts, Pepsi, Safeway and Foodland.

As for the swing set she had wanted restored for the children, "you see people of all ages utilizing and enjoying it," Medeiros said, "and that has made it all worthwhile."

Reach Eloise Aguiar at eaguiar@honoluluadvertiser.com or 234-5266.